Q: At the end of last winter, in March, I saw my doctor and learned that my vitamin D tested at 17! I was shocked, as I walk outdoors every day, all year long. I am a black woman, and I live in South Carolina. Without asking anything about my […]
Q: Are pecans heart healthy? I understand that nuts are good for you , but people mostly mention almonds and walnuts. I live in Texas, where pecans are the most common nut, and they are also my favorite. Pecans are seldom included in the lists of heart healthy nuts, which […]
Q: I have been using the pectin/grape-juice remedy for joint pain, and it is helping. I do have a question about formula. If I cannot find liquid Certo, can I use the same measurement for powdered pectin? In other words, is a tablespoon of dry pectin the same dosage as […]
Q: I’ve heard that sun exposure might be better than pills for getting vitamin D. How much time do you need in the sun without sunscreen to get a good dose? A: A lot depends on geography, time of year, time of day and the shade of your skin. Someone […]
Q: Licorice oil helps heal various bites, burns and even cold sores. It takes down fire-ant bites fast! I make my own licorice oil using one licorice tea bag to 1 cup of olive oil. I leave that mixture in a covered jar on the counter, though it could be […]
Q: I have had jock itch for about a year now. The cream the doctor gave me doesn’t work. Do you have any other suggestions? A: Jock itch is usually triggered by a fungal infection. Warm, moist areas such as the folds of the groin provide hospitable conditions for these […]
Q: What can I take to reduce my cholesterol besides pills? I would much prefer something natural rather than the statin my doctor suggested. A: You probably could please your physician by taking red-yeast rice. This product contains naturally produced statins that have been shown to lower cholesterol (Nutrition, Metabolism, […]
Q: I read in your column that pickle juice can ease muscle cramps. I tried olive juice and found it much more consistently effective. The result is almost immediate. A: Many olives are sold in a brine solution of salt and vinegar. We suspect that these are common ingredients in […]
Q: I had been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis, and I also had dandruff. One day I read in a magazine that Greek yogurt could help. I decided to give it a try and shampooed with it, also applying it to my face. The next day the dermatitis was gone. I […]
Q: My husband’s blood pressure was creeping up when I read your article on drinking hibiscus tea to lower blood pressure. He has been drinking three cups of Tazo Passion tea with hibiscus every day since then, and his blood pressure has gone back to normal range! Thank you so […]